Weeklong tour comes at critical juncture for program that drives economic development and supports local conservation, outdoor recreation and clean water projects across the country

07/07/2014

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell and other senior Department officials will fan across the country this week – from Alabama to Alaska – joining with local elected officials and stakeholders to underscore the importance of the Land and Water Conservation Fund to support communities’ conservation, outdoor recreation and clean water projects.

Over its 50 year history, the Land and Water Conservation Fund has played a vital role in boosting local economies in every state, but it is set to expire without action from Congress. President Obama has proposed to enact full, permanent funding as part of his 2015 budget request.

Secretary Jewell will kick-off the week on Tuesday in Fort Worth, Texas, where she will make an important funding announcement for local communities who leverage the program to create ball-fields and parks for kids to play and learn, expand open spaces and protect important water sources. One analysis of the Land and Water Conservation Fund found that every $1 invested in land acquisition generated a $4 return on investment for communities.

“Congress needs to fulfill the promise made to the American people through the Land and Water Conservation Fund to use a small amount of the federal revenues generated from offshore oil and gas production to invest in our nation’s outdoor heritage, clean water and economic prosperity,” said Jewell. “I look forward to spending time this week with mayors and partners who are leveraging the program to realize local priorities, such as developing urban parks in Texas, expanding access for sportsmen and sportswomen in Alabama, and preserving historic battlefields in Virginia.”

Over the coming days, Secretary Jewell, Deputy Secretary of the Interior Michael Connor, Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Dan Ashe, and Director of the Bureau of Land Management Neil Kornze will participate in local events in Alabama, Alaska, Florida, Oregon, Texas and Virginia. Additional event details are available below.